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Understanding Post-Election Stress: How It May Impact Your Well-Being and Romantic Relationship

Couple sitting together in a cozy living room, discussing political issues in a supportive atmosphere.
Sharing heartfelt discussions with others about election stress, it's impact, and how to cope can help

Elections bring a whirlwind of emotions. Whether your candidates succeed or falter, the effects can linger long after the voting ends. This lingering tension, often referred to as post-election stress, can affect not just your individual well-being but also the dynamics of your romantic relationship. In this post, we’ll explore the effects of post-election stress and provide specific strategies to help you cope.


What is Post-Election Stress?


Post-election stress encompasses the anxiety and emotional turbulence that can arise after an election period. For example, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly 68% of Americans reported feeling heightened anxiety surrounding election outcomes. For many, this stress stems from political results that clash with their beliefs, while others may feel insecure about the future.


These feelings are valid and can take a toll on one’s mental health if they remain unrecognized. When left unchecked, the stress can affect your daily life and emotional well-being.


The Relationship Between Stress and Well-Being


Stress can have profound impacts on both mental and physical health. A clinical study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that over 40% of individuals report physical symptoms related to stress, such as fatigue, insomnia, and headaches. When under stress, your body can enter fight-or-flight mode. This might lead to irritability, emotional withdrawal, or difficulty controlling your reactions. If you find that discussions about the election leave you feeling drained or upset, you’re not alone and it’s important to address this.


Recognizing the Signs of Post-Election Stress in Yourself


Being aware of your emotions is crucial for managing stress effectively. Common symptoms can include:


  • Racing thoughts: Constantly analyzing political changes and their implications.

  • Irritability: Feeling easily agitated with yourself, others or your partner.

  • Withdrawal: Shying away from social activities that once brought you joy.

  • Physical symptoms: Experiencing unexplained fatigue, headaches, or digestive issues.

  • Change in Eating or Sleeping: Difficutly sleeping, staying asleep or a change in eating patterns.

  • Increased Use of Substances: An increase in the use of alcohol, marijuana, etc

  • Desire to Organize Personal Space: Feeling out of control internally, can lead to the need for external control.


Identifying these signs can empower you to take action before they escalate into more serious mental health concerns.


How Post-Election Stress Affects Romantic Relationships


Post-election stress can ripple through your relationship, creating strain. Here are some examples of how it may manifest:


  • Communication Challenges: Stress may inhibit your ability to express your feelings, leading to misunderstandings.

  • Reduced intimacy: Heightened stress hinders intimacy and can result in emotional withdrawal, weakening intimate connections with your partner.

  • Increased arguments: Disparate political views can fuel disagreements, particularly during challenging times.


Understanding these impacts is essential for taking collective action as a couple to foster understanding and intimacy, even in trying times.


Strategies for Managing Post-Election Stress Individually


While it may be impossible to erase stress entirely, there are practical strategies to manage it effectively:


1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques


Engaging in mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can anchor you in the present. Studies show that even 10 minutes of focused breathing can lead to noticeable stress reduction. Consider setting aside a few minutes each day to find a quiet space and breathe deeply.


2. Limit News Consumption


Staying informed is essential, but constant updates can amplify stress. Designate specific times during the day for news check-ins, rather than having updates streaming throughout your day.


3. Engage in Physical Activity


Physical activity has been linked to improved mood and reduced stress levels. A daily walk of just 30 minutes can significantly boost your emotional state. Whether you prefer jogging, dancing, or simple strolls, find an activity that you enjoy and integrate it into your routine.



3. Connect With Others


Connecting with others experiencing post-election stress can be beneficial. It can be reassuring to realize you're not alone in your difficulties, as others face similar challenges. Discussing how the election has affected you and exchanging coping strategies can also be helpful. Keep the focus on your experiences, rather than political issues.




Strategies for Managing Post-Election Stress in Relationships


Addressing stress in your romantic relationship can improve your collective well-being. Here are some effective strategies:


1. Open Communication


Open dialogue can fortify your relationship. Share your feelings about the election outcomes and any stress you’re experiencing. Creating emotional safety for open expression helps build a sense of harmony and togetherness.


2. Soften Responses with Empathy and Compassion


Make a conscious effort to understand your partner’s perspective. Even when opinions diverge, validating each other’s feelings fosters emotional intimacy and reduces conflicts.


3. Schedule Quality Time


Prioritize enjoying each other’s company. Engaging in simple activities together—like cooking, watching a favorite movie, or going for a walk—can offer breaks from stress and strengthen your connection.


Seeking Professional Help


If navigating stress feels overwhelming, seeking professional help can be beneficial. Therapy can provide guidance, stress management tools, and effective strategies for increasing intimacy during trying times. Regular sessions can help your reconnect, obtain peace of mind and discover ways to cope with external pressures, together.


Navigating the Emotional Landscape as a Couple


Elections may come and go, but the stress that follows can linger, affecting both your personal well-being and your relationship. By recognizing the signs of post-election stress and its implications for your relationship, you can take proactive steps to mitigate its effects.


Utilizing practical strategies and maintaining closeness can enhance your individual mental health and strengthen your partnership. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; your partner is alongside you, ready to face challenges together with love and support.



Navigating post-election stress may be tough, but with understanding and empathy, you can emerge stronger and more united. Prioritize your mental well-being and nurture your relationship; love and support are your most effective tools during turbulent times.


Explore Our Polical Care Package


In a response to the challenges individuals and couples are experiencing, Open Door Therapy is offering a counseling discount in this unique four-session Political Stress Counseling Package. Open Door Therapy also offers standard 60-minute sessions as well as Extended Single Sessions .




 

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2 Comments


Username
Nov 24

Genuinely curious - would you have published this article had Kamala won?

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Terri DiMatteo, LPC
Terri DiMatteo, LPC
Dec 03
Replying to

Hello. Thank you for your comment. Yes, I would have published this article had the election outcome been different because the experience of Election Stress is not related to a particular person, party, outcome or election year. It is a psychological experience that often follows contentious elections and impacts family, work and community relationships. Additionally, anxiety generally stems from uncertainty and election outcomes naturally deliver uncertainty.

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